Questions And Answers

I am responsible for configuring a network room that will contain 20 servers and communications equipment (hubs, routers, etc...). I was wondering what the difference is in conductive and dissipative flooring, and should I be looking at this type of surface for the computer room? Should I also be looking at this for our lab area where we tear apart computers to work on, as well? I have found a lot of product info, but no definitions on types of flooring. Any information you could provide me with would be great, thanks. - Anonymous, GC, CA

Answer

Typically ESD floors are in the high conductive range or mid-low dissipative range, depending on the materials. For ESD floor tiles, floor paint or floor mats, typically high conductive range (low dissipative range is OK). For floor finish and some floor mats, the resistance is typically in the mid-dissipative range. The reason to choose a high conductive (10E4 - 10E5 Ohms) floor is as it gets dirty, (dirt usually being insulative) the resistance naturally gets higher going into the dissipative range. If your program is maintained well, floors cleaned regularly, then a dissipative floor or floor finish is perfect. ESDS areas (usually work tops/benches) should have dissipative mats/surfaces for handling the ESDS devices.